Customized aortic stent device and method of making the same

ABSTRACT

The application provides customized aortic stent and stent graft devices and methods for the manufacture thereof. The customized aortic stent or stent graft are patient-specific in that they conform to at least part of the ascending aorta, aortic arch and/or thoracic aorta.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation under 35 U.S.C. §120 of InternationalApplication No. PCT/EP2013/070665, filed Oct. 4, 2013 (published in theEnglish language by the International Bureau as InternationalPublication No. WO/2014/053616 on Apr. 10, 2014), which claims priorityto European Patent Application No. 12187518.1, filed Oct. 5, 2012. Theentire contents of each of the above-referenced applications are herebyincorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The application relates to customized aortic stent devices and methodsfor the manufacture thereof. The customized aortic stent arepatient-specific. In particular embodiments, they conform to at leastpart of the ascending aorta, aortic arch and/or thoracic aorta.

2. Description of the Related Technology

Endoprostheses are a commonly used way of dealing with diseases ininterventional medicine and surgery. Mesh-based endoprostheses such asstents, stent grafts, heart valve frames, etc. are of particularimportance in cardiovascular applications. Also other fields of medicinemake use of such endoprostheses, e.g. pulmonary tract stents, oesophagusstents, etc.

Vascular endoprostheses such as stents are tubular structures used toprop open and restore blood flow in arteries. These devices are designedsuch that they are deployable by catheter or similar stent deliverysystem, as it is desirable for stent placement procedures to beminimally invasive. Some stents are self-expandable, whereas otherstents are inflated via a balloon inside the stent in order to force thestent to open.

In case of aortic aneurysm or aortic dissection vascular endoprosthesesare placed near or across the aneurysm or dissection in order toredirect or reduce the blood flow into the aneurysm or dissection.

Recently, customized vascular endoprostheses, based on digital images ofthe endoluminal shape of the artery or the blood flow channel, have beendeveloped. Typical customized vascular endoprostheses have a braided orV-shaped metal wire pattern which is wrapped around a customized mandrelto personalize the endoprostheses.

SUMMARY

The application provides customized vascular endoprostheses and methodsfor the manufacture thereof. The customized endoprostheses arepatient-specific in that they conform to at least part of the vessel. Inparticular embodiments, the vessel is the aorta, and more particularlythe endoprosthesis or part thereof conforms to at least part of theascending aorta, aortic arch and/or thoracic aorta. Methods have beendeveloped for the manufacturing of customized vascular endoprostheses,which methods involve the production of a 2-dimensional (2D) structureof the endoprosthesis and the use of a mold for ensuring that the 2Dstructure is provided into a 3D shape corresponding to the patient'sanatomy.

Provided herein are methods for manufacturing a personalized vascularendoprosthesis fitting at least part of a patient's vessel anatomy. Inparticular embodiments, these methods comprise the steps of: a)designing a 3D model of a vascular endoprosthesis, based on a 3D imageof the patient's vessel anatomy or part thereof; b) transposing the 3Dmodel to a 2D pattern for the endoprosthesis; c) manufacturing a 2Dendoprosthesis structure from the 2D pattern; d) providing a mold forthe vascular endoprosthesis; e) assembling the 2D endoprosthesisstructure around the mold so as to obtain a 3D endoprosthesis; and f)removing the mold from the 3D endoprosthesis.

In particular embodiments, the methods envisioned herein comprisedesigning a 3D model of an endoprosthesis based on the patient'scorrected vessel anatomy or part thereof. In the methods envisionedherein, a 2D endoprosthesis structure is wrapped around a mold to form a3D endoprosthesis. In particular embodiments of the methods envisionedherein the step of assembling the 2D endoprosthesis structure around themold comprises attaching one or more rigid rings onto the 2D structure.

In particular embodiments, the 3D model of the endoprosthesis isprovided with grooves conform to the one or more rigid rings and/orattachment structures.

In particular embodiments, the one or more rigid rings are stitched ontothe 2D structure. For this purpose, the 2D structure may comprisefeatures such as rigid areas and/or stitch holes.

In particular embodiments, the endoprosthesis is a personalized aorticendoprosthesis which fits at least partially with the ascending aorta,the aortic arch and/or the thoracic aorta.

In particular embodiments of the methods envisioned herein, the moldused is a crushable mold. More particularly, in the methods envisionedherein, the mold comprises or consists of two or more, more particularlythree or more pieces which are joined via a weakened seam, such that themold can be broken in a controlled way, thereby allowing theendoprostheses to be removed from the mold without the need to dismantleit.

In particular embodiments, the methods envisioned herein thus comprisemaking a crushable mold based on the obtained 3D model of the vascularendoprosthesis.

In further particular embodiments, the mold is made by additivemanufacturing.

The application also provides personalized vascular endoprostheses, suchas those obtainable by the methods described herein.

The application provides personalized vascular endoprostheses comprisinga proximal end, a distal end and a hollow tubular body having a centrallongitudinal axis, the body comprising a stent scaffold made from apolymeric material and one or more rigid ring structures encircling andattached to the stent scaffold, wherein the outer surface of the stentscaffold comprises at least one area complementary to at least part of apatient's vessel anatomy. In particular embodiments, the personalizedvascular endoprosthesis comprises at least one non-circularcross-section along the length of its scaffold.

In further particular embodiments, the endoprosthesis is a personalizedaortic endoprosthesis which complements at least partially with theascending aorta, the aortic arch and/or the thoracic aorta.

The application further provides crushable molds for the manufacture ofa vascular endoprosthesis, wherein the mold comprises grooves conform toone or more rigid rings for encircling the mold. The crushable molds asused in particular embodiments of the methods described herein may beused as a mandrel and can be broken into small pieces in a controlledand predefined manner, which facilitates separation of theendoprosthesis from the mandrel. Furthermore, the weakened seams of themodels can be made such that they do not compromise the rigidity of themold.

The application further provides computer-readable media adapted toperform the steps of the methods envisioned herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following description of the figures of specific embodiments ismerely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the presentteachings, their application or uses. Throughout the drawings,corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding partsand features.

FIG. 1—Schematic representation of a patient's aorta anatomy.

FIG. 2—Schematic representation of a diseased patient's aorta anatomyand the position of a customized aortic endoprosthesis.

FIGS. 3—3D image of a customized aortic endoprosthesis as describedherein.

FIG. 4—example of an endoprosthesis, comprising, attached thereto, rigidrings in the form of crowns, such as those that can be used in theendoprostheses envisioned herein.

In the figures, the following numbering is used: 1—aorta anatomy;2—ascending aorta; 3—aortic arch; 4—thoracic aorta; 5—aortic valve;6—head and neck vessels; 7—diseased part of the ascending aorta;8—diseased part of the aortic arch going into the head and neck vessels;10—customized aortic endoprosthesis; 11—endoprosthesis scaffold;12—endoprosthesis rigid rings; 13—partial endoprosthesis; and14—patient-specific features.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INVENTIVE EMBODIMENTS

The concepts provided herein will be described with respect toparticular embodiments but it is not limited thereto. Any referencesigns in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scopethereof.

As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include bothsingular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictatesotherwise.

The terms “comprising”, “comprises” and “comprised of” as used hereinare synonymous with “including”, “includes” or “containing”, “contains”,and are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional,non-recited members, elements or method steps. The terms “comprising”,“comprises” and “comprised of when referring to recited members,elements or method steps also include embodiments which “consist of” therecited members, elements or method steps.

Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in thedescription and in the claims, are used for distinguishing betweensimilar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential orchronological order, unless specified. It is to be understood that theterms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances andthat the embodiments described herein are capable of operation in othersequences than described or illustrated herein.

The term “about” as used herein when referring to a measurable valuesuch as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, ismeant to encompass variations of +/−10% or less, preferably +1-5% orless, more preferably +/−1% or less, and still more preferably +/−0.1%or less of and from the specified value, insofar such variations areappropriate to perform in the disclosure. It is to be understood thatthe value to which the modifier “about” refers is itself alsospecifically, and preferably, disclosed.

The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers andfractions subsumed within the respective ranges, as well as the recitedendpoints.

All documents cited in the present specification are hereby incorporatedby reference in their entirety.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this disclosure, includingtechnical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understoodby one of ordinary skill in the art to which it belongs. By means offurther guidance, definitions for the terms used in the description areincluded to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention. Theterms or definitions used herein are provided solely to aid in theunderstanding of the invention.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “anembodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristicdescribed in connection with the embodiment is included in at least oneembodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “inan embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are notnecessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore,the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combinedin any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person skilled in theart from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, whilesome embodiments described herein include some but not other featuresincluded in other embodiments, combinations of features of differentembodiments are meant to be within the scope of the teachings providedherein, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by thosein the art. For example, in the enclosed claims, any of the claimedembodiments can be used in any combination.

Provided herein are methods for manufacturing a personalized aorticendoprosthesis. The term “endoprosthesis” as used herein refers to anyprosthetic device placed within the body. A “vascular endoprosthesis” asused herein refers to an endoprosthesis for use in a blood or lymphvessel of the body. The term “aortic endoprosthesis” refers to anendoprosthesis device placed within the aorta of a patient. The aorta isthe largest artery in the body, originating from the left ventricle ofthe heart and extending down to the abdomen. The aorta distributesoxygenated blood to all parts of the body. In particular the aorticendoprosthesis is placed within the ascending aorta, the aortic archand/or the thoracic aorta.

An endoprosthesis is typically an expandable prosthesis for implantationinto a body lumen and includes devices such as stents, grafts,stent-grafts, vena cava filters, tubular expandable frameworks, heartvalve frames, etc. The therapeutic objective may include but is notlimited to the objective of restoring or enhancing flow of fluidsthrough a body lumen or duct. The objective may alternatively be theprevention of flow of fluid or other material through the body lumen.

In particular, the aortic endoprostheses as described herein are ofparticular therapeutic use for patients suffering with complex aorticdissections and/or aneurysms that are found untreatable due to thecomplexity of the aneurysm or lesion. Also, due to the vicinity of theaortic valve and the branching of the head-and-neck vessels, complexaortic aneurysms and dissections occurring for instance in the ascendingaorta and the aortic arch area are difficult to treat. This is even morethe case for patients that are too weak to undergo a surgicalintervention and are unfit for a standard EVAR (EndoVascular AneurysmRepair) which is a minimally invasive treatment with stent graft. Theaortic endoprostheses as described herein are regarded as a promisingalternative as they provide a custom made and personalizedendoprosthesis that can be deployed with minimal invasiveness.

The vascular endoprostheses as described herein are customized orpersonalized endoprostheses, more specifically the aortic endoprosthesisis adapted to a patient's vessel anatomy. Thus, provided herein aremethods for manufacturing an aortic endoprosthesis specifically fittinga patient's aorta anatomy. Custom or personalized endoprostheses mayreduce the risk of suboptimal intervention results compared to standardendoprostheses, especially when the aorta anatomy has a high rate ofcurvature and/or a non-uniform diameter, as is the case with the aortadue to vicinity of the aortic valve, the branching of the head-and-neckvessels and the aortic arch connecting the ascending aorta to thethoracic aorta through a 180° bend.

In particular embodiments the custom or personalized vascular (e.g.aortic) endoprostheses as described herein have a shape and size, orcomprise a part having a shape and size which are complementary to theshape and size of the corresponding patient's vessel (e.g. aorta) orpart thereof. The patient may be a human or animal patient. Inparticular embodiments the custom or personalized vascularendoprostheses as described herein comprise at least one personalizedregion, corresponding to the patient's anatomy or multiple customized orpersonalized regions connected through generic regions that are notcustomized or personalized. For instance, the proximal and distalregions of the body structure of the aortic endoprostheses as describedherein may be customized or personalized while central part of the bodystructure can have a generic form. This is of specific interest whenusing the personalized aortic endoprostheses as described herein fortreating a condition of the aorta such as an aortic aneurysm or aorticdissection. For use in these embodiments, the customized or personalizedregions of the aortic endoprosthesis may be positioned outside thediseased part of the aorta and the part of the aortic endoprosthesisbridging the diseased part of the aorta may be a generic lumen or alumen corresponding to the form of the artery that would be envisionedupon repair of the artery.

As detailed above, the methods disclosed herein generally rely oninformation relating to the patient's vascular anatomy. This type ofinformation is typically obtained through known medical imagingtechniques. The term “medical imaging” as used herein refers totechniques and processes used to create images of the human or animalbody (or parts and function thereof), typically for clinical purposes(medical procedures seeking to reveal, diagnose or examine disease) ormedical science (including the study of normal anatomy and physiology).The imaging information can be obtained using any type of imagingapparatus or imaging technique which allows imaging or scanning thepatient's aorta in an accurate manner. These may include equipment suchas cameras and scanners for industrial, household or medical use. Inparticular embodiments the imaging techniques and appliances used aretypical medical imaging tools such as, but not limited to computertomography (CT) scans including for instance multi-slice CT (MSCT)scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, ultrasound, 3Dultrasound, Positron emission tomography (PET) scans, Single-photonemission computed tomography (SPECT) scans or other imaging modalities.A summary of medical imaging has been described in “Fundamentals ofMedical imaging”, by P. Suetens, Cambridge University Press, 2002.

Methods are provided herein for manufacturing a vascular endoprosthesisfitting at least part of a patient's vessel anatomy, which comprise thestep of designing a 3D model of a vascular endoprosthesis, based on a 3Dimage of the patient's vessel anatomy or part thereof. Moreparticularly, methods are provided herein for manufacturing an aorticendoprosthesis fitting at least part of a patient's aorta anatomy, whichcomprise the step of designing a 3D model of an aortic endoprosthesis,based on a 3D image of the patient's aorta anatomy or part thereof.Based on the 3D image of the patient's aorta anatomy, a 3D model of thepatient's aorta anatomy or part thereof is designed. The 3D model can beobtained directly from this 3D image, for example obtained via theMimics™ or 3-matic™ computer program as provided by Materialise N.V.,Leuven, Belgium.

In particular embodiments, methods are provided for manufacturing apersonalized aortic endoprosthesis fitting at least part of a patient'saorta anatomy, comprising the steps of: providing a 3D image of thepatient's aorta anatomy or part thereof; and designing a 3D model of apersonalized aortic endoprosthesis based thereon.

In particular embodiments of the methods as provided herein optionallyprovide designing a 3D model of the patient's corrected aorta anatomy orpart thereof. Small modifications can be made to the 3D image or 3Dmodel to make a corrected 3D model. For example, certain narrowings ofthe aorta may be widened, such that the 3D image corresponds to adesired optimal aorta anatomy or the diseased part of the aorta anatomymay be corrected to obtain a corrected model of the aorta that issuitable for resulting in the optimal healing of the aorta anatomy. Inparticular embodiments, the size of the 3D model is enlarged or reducedlocally, in function of the local pressure which needs to be provided bythe endoprosthesis.

On the basis of the 3D model or the corrected 3D model of the aortaanatomy a 3D model of a customized or personalized aortic endoprosthesiscan be designed. The customized or personalized aortic endoprosthesis isdesigned such that it fits to at least part of the patient's (optionallycorrected) aorta anatomy and typically comprises one or more regionsthat are patient-specific. More particularly the customized orpersonalized aortic endoprosthesis typically comprises at least 2, 3, 4or more regions that are patient-specific. In particular embodiments,the patient-specific regions of the aortic endoprosthesis are typicallypositioned onto or near the distal or proximal regions of theendoprosthesis or onto or near branching of the head-and-neck vessels.

In particular embodiments, methods are provided for manufacturing apersonalized aortic endoprosthesis fitting at least part of a patient'saorta anatomy, comprising the steps of: providing a 3D image of thepatient's aorta anatomy or part thereof; designing a 3D model of thepatient's aorta anatomy or part thereof; and designing a 3D model of anaortic endoprosthesis fitting at least part of the patient's (corrected)aorta anatomy;

On the basis of the 3D model of the customized or personalized aorticendoprosthesis a 2D structure is made. In particular embodiments, the 3Dmodel is transposed or projected onto a 2D surface thereby generating a2D pattern which corresponds to the 3D model. The transposition from 3Dto 2D is for instance performed by unwrapping the shell of the 3D modeland projecting the unwrapped image onto a 2D surface or through theunrolling of the 3D model onto a 2D surface. Also other unfoldingtechniques such as a U-V parametrized unfolding can be used to obtain a2D unfolded representation. In a particular embodiment the unfoldedrepresentation includes information relating to the position of therigid rings and/or anatomical information. In particular embodiments theunfolded representation comprises features for attaching theendoprosthesis to an overlapping structure through gluing or sewing, orto remove potential holes or leakage in the 3D folded stage.

The 2D pattern is subsequently manufactured, thereby providing a 2Dendoprosthesis structure. The manufacturing of the 2D structure mayoccur using methods typically known in the art and depending on thematerials that are used. In particular embodiments the 2D structure ismade from a woven or polymeric material and manufactured by cutting the2D pattern out of a sheet of the woven or polymeric material.

In particular embodiments, it is envisioned that the 3D model may onlybe unfoldable in several parts (i.e. not in one part). The multiple 2Dstructures then need to be assembled (sewn, glued or attached by othermeans).

The woven or polymeric material as used in the endoprosthesis asdescribed herein may be adjusted to achieve particular physicalproperties. For example, the parts of the 2D endoprosthesis structureonto which rigid rings or crowns will be attached may be rendered morestiff by taking away some of the material requiring it to be stretchedinto position. Similarly, particular features may be provided to allowattachment of multiple 2D structures to each other (e.g. overlapregions). In further particular embodiments, local holes may be providedor a circumferential groove or structure for attachment of the rings.Accordingly, the 2D pattern may still be adapted and features added toit. Alternatively, the 2D structure is made through additivemanufacturing.

In particular embodiments of the methods envisioned herein the 2Dstructure is made from a polymeric material. Typically the material ischaracterized by being flexible, supportive, capable of expansion,and/or biocompatible. Typical materials used as polymeric material arechosen from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyethylene (PE),polyethylene terephtalate, silicone, polyglycolic acid, polylactic acidand/or polyurethane or other woven fabric materials or polymers.

The 2D endoprosthesis structure may be created based on the virtuallycorrected vessel structure. This correction can be based on averagepopulation data and as such fit an average vessel portion through thehealthy anatomy parts and as such close e.g. a sick gap. An alternativecorrection method would be to use computer simulation in order toestablish optimal strength or flow based parameters. Another alternativemethod can be to perform a tangent fit to bridge the diseased anatomy.

The 3D model of the aortic endoprosthesis is provided as describedabove, can also be used to generate a mold for the manufacture of theendoprosthesis, more particularly a mold which can be used as a support,for wrapping the 2D structure of the endoprosthesis into a 3D device.

In particular embodiments, the 3D model of the aortic endoprosthesis isused to design and manufacture a crushable mold or a flexible mold. Themold can in particular embodiments also be manufactured based on a 3Dimage of the aortic endoprosthesis. In these embodiments, the mold forthe endoprosthesis will at least partially correspond to a 3D model ofthe patient's aorta such that the wrapping the 2D endoprosthesisstructure tightly thereon, will result in a 3D endoprosthesis whichcorresponds at least in part to the anatomy of the patient's aorta. Theterms “mold” and “mandrel” are used interchangeably herein and refer tothree dimensional objects of which the shape and surface is madespecifically such that it can be used to ensure a desired shape andsurface in an object manufactured thereon.

The terms “flexible” mold or support as used herein refers to a mold orsupport that is not rigid. More particularly the mold or support can beflexible in that it can be increased in size by the application ofpressure e.g. by providing air or liquid pressure. This can be achievedby the use of flexible polymers. After printing, the flexible mold orsupport is made more rigid by adding pressure. After the endoprosthesisis made on the mold or support, the pressure is removed such that theflexible mold or support can be removed from the endoprosthesis. Aflexible mold can be patient-specific and optionally be made based on a3D model of the endoprosthesis. However, the use of flexible supportsare also envisioned in this context, i.e. support structures such asballoons which can provide sufficient support for assembling the 2Dendoprosthesis structure into the 3D endoprosthesis.

The terms “crushable” mold or support as used herein refers to a mold orsupport that is characterized by being able to be broken down in acontrolled manner into discrete pieces. After an object is made around acrushable mold or support, the mold or support itself can be broken downby applying pressure thereto and the mold pieces can be removed withouthaving to interfere with the object made. In particular, the crushablemold or support is an ordered mold or support comprising strong pieceslinked through weaker grooves (strong and weak being determined as ableto withstand the envisioned pressure). As a result, upon pressurizingthe crushable mold or support, it will crumble into predetermined piecesof similar size and shape. This is in contrast to non-crushable molds orsupports which may also break when subjected to pressure, but will inmost cases require much higher pressures and in addition do so in anuncontrolled, unexpected and often undesired manner. In particular, thecrushable mold or support is structure which exhibits controlledfracturing along the weaker grooves or seams resulting into smallerpieces. In particular embodiments, the envisioned pieces of a vascularendoprosthesis mold as envisioned herein are equal to or preferablysmaller than the diameter of the mold corresponding to the innerdiameter of the corresponding vascular endoprosthesis, such that themold can be broken within the vascular endoprosthesis and the pieces canbe removed through the lumen of the endoprosthesis.

These methods allow the manufacturing of complex objects with complexstructures on a mold or support without having to disassemble andreassemble these objects to remove the mold. In the methods envisionedherein, as the mold or support of the endoprosthesis is envisioned to beflexible or crushable, it can be removed without affecting the integrityof the endoprosthesis assembled thereon.

As described above, the structure for supporting the 2D structure duringits assembly to a 3D endoprosthesis may, but need not bepatient-specific. Thus, in particular embodiments, it is envisioned thatuse is made of a crushable support, which is a standard supportstructure which can be broken down in a controlled way.

Alternatively, in particular embodiments, where the 3D model of theendoprosthesis is envisioned for use both for the provision of the 2Dstructure of the endoprosthesis and for the provision of the mold forsupporting the 2D structure, it is envisioned that the step of providingthe 3D model of the aortic endoprosthesis may in some embodimentsinclude an optional step of adapting the 3D model of the aorticendoprosthesis to include additional structural features. Suchstructural features may be specific for the provision of the 2Dstructure of the endoprosthesis or for the provision of the mold. Inparticular embodiments, different adapted 3D models are provided foreach of these applications. Examples of additional structural featuresinclude features such as for instance features conform to ringstructures (as will be described herein below) that are to be attachedto the endoprosthesis and/or attachment structures for attaching thering structures to the endoprosthesis. Providing groove structures onthe 3D model of the endoprosthesis corresponding to the envisionedposition of the ring structures (as will be detailed below) may ensurethat the ring structures will be embedded within the endoprosthesis anddo no protrude significantly from the surface of the endoprosthesis. Inparticular embodiments, the positions of the rings is specificallyselected to be positioned in the landing zones and/or removed from thehead and neck vessels or from weakened or deformed anatomy.

In particular embodiments, it is envisioned that the endoprosthesis maybe provided with particular features related to its use, such as but notlimited to features for attachment, and/or deployment elements.Accordingly, in certain embodiments, the 3D model of the endoprosthesismay be provided with features (such as for example recesses) foraccommodating deployment elements or for attachment of the ringstructures of the endoprosthesis.

Similarly it is envisioned that in particular embodiments, in the designof the mold based on the 3D model of the endoprosthesis, particularfeatures are provided on the model for this purpose. For instance, inparticular embodiments, the 3D model of the endoprosthesis is used forthe design of a crushable mold. The model is meshed so as to provide atiled structure, more particularly tile pieces and spacings between thetile pieces thereby providing features allowing the mold to be brokendown in a controlled manner. Examples of envisioned crushable molds willbe discussed in more detail below.

In the methods for the manufacture of an endoprosthesis envisionedherein, the 2D endoprosthesis structure is assembled back into a 3Dshape on the (crushable or flexible) mold. This is typically done bywrapping the 2D structure around the mold. The 2D structure is foldedonto the mold. Either before or after the wrapping of the 2D structure,rigid rings or crowns are positioned onto the mold. The individual sizeand circumferential length or the rings or crowns can optionally beestablished from 3D images. The rings are attached to the wrapped 2Dstructure, i.e. the endoprosthesis scaffold, optionally making use ofspecific attachment features provided on the 2D structure during itsmanufacture as described above. In particular embodiments, the rings orcrowns are sewn to the endoprosthesis scaffold. The rigid rings may thusbe positioned on the inside or the outside of the endoprosthesis.

After assembling the mold is removed and the structure that was wrappedaround the mold forms the personalized aortic endoprosthesis asdescribed herein.

In the methods envisioned herein making use of a crushable mold, themold is removed from the endoprosthesis by mechanically breaking themandrel by applying (external) mechanical force. In particularembodiments, as will be detailed below, the mold is made of tile piecesinterlinked by weakened seams, such that the mandrel can be broken in acontrolled way, and that the individual tile pieces can be removedeasily from the endoprosthesis. In further embodiments making use offlexible mold, the mold is removed by reducing the size and/or rigidityof the mold, e.g. by removing the pressure thereon. In both embodiments,endoprosthesis removal does not involve the use of hazardous acids asrequired for the method of U.S. Patent Application No. 2005/096729.

In particular embodiments the methods as described herein provide thatthe assembling of the 2D endoprosthesis structure around the moldcomprises attaching one or more rigid rings onto the 2D structure aroundthe mold. Ring structures suitable for use in the context of theendoprostheses are known in the art, such as, for instance but notlimited to from US 2009/0163998. The “rigid rings” as referred to hereinin fact correspond to structures having a shape which can, in most casesbe positioned circumferentially around the mold and/or 3Dendoprosthesis, and are thus essentially circular. However, as detailedherein, where the endoprosthesis does not have a circular cross-section,the rigid ring will be semi-circular or extend to form only part of acircle. The shape of the rigid rings is however not necessarily straightbut is more often jagged or curved resulting in a more crown-like shape.The rigid rings, while envisioned to be more rigid in structure than theendoprosthesis material, in particular embodiments, can be bent to matchthe patient specific anatomy. As used herein, the term rigid is employedherein to indicate the limited flexibility of the structure of the ringsor crowns. This rigidity allows them to ensure the flow through of thedevice. However, it will be understood to the skilled person that inparticular embodiments, the rings or crowns may be ensured that they arenevertheless expandable, e.g. in the case of deployable devices, whilemaintaining their general structure.

Such rigid rings, in particular embodiments also referred to as crowns,which typically serve to maintain the 2D endoprosthesis structure in its3D shape are typically made from a material such as a metal, a ceramicmaterial or carbon material. More particularly, typical materials thatcan be used for the rigid rings as described herein are chosen frommetals or metal alloys such as Nitinol, stainless steel, titanium,platinum, gold, cobalt-chromium alloy, tantalum alloy, a carbon materialsuch as pyrolitic carbon or a ceramic or glass material known in theart.

In a particular embodiment the rigid rings or crowns are made in Nitinol(or another self-expanding material). Nitinol rings are typically usedwhen the personalized aortic endoprosthesis as described herein isself-deployable.

The deployment of the personalized aortic endoprosthesis as describedherein may also be performed by (a multi-stage) balloon expansion asdescribed herein. The rigid rings of the balloon expanding devices areusually made of Co—CR (Cobalt-Chromium), Stainless Steel, platinum, orother materials known in the art. In a particular embodiment the rigidrings used to ensure rigidity and/or maintain the structure of theendoprosthesis are patient-specific or comprise patient-specificfeatures.

Typically, the rigid rings will follow the circumference of theendoprosthesis. In particular embodiments however, some of the rigidrings do not form a complete 360° circle, more particularly in thoseparts of the endoprosthesis comprising openings to allow passage forvessels, such as head and neck vessels in the aorta. For the rigid ringslocated at or near the head and neck vessels their circumferentiallength is estimated from local vessel perimeter and local size of thehead and neck vessels or other geometrical, structural or tissue-relatedparameters in order to not obstruct those latter vessels. In particularembodiments the rings or crowns are isolated structures. However, thedifferent rings or crowns may also be interconnected.

The attachment of the rigid rings onto the 2D structure can optionallybe ensured using any one of a number of generally available techniquesincluding, but not limited to, stitching or alternative attachmentforms.

In general, the materials used in vascular endoprostheses (i.e. the 2Dendoprosthesis structure material and rings or attachment structurestherefore) are typically composed of biocompatible materials, asmaterials that are not biocompatible can cause one of any number ofcomplications. Typically the vascular endoprostheses as described hereindoes not cause a reaction in the human body.

In particular embodiments, methods are provided for manufacturing apersonalized aortic endoprosthesis fitting at least part of a patient'saorta anatomy, comprising the steps of: providing a 3D image of thepatient's aorta anatomy or part thereof; designing a 3D model of thepatient's aorta anatomy or part thereof; designing a 3D model of anaortic endoprosthesis fitting at least part of the patient's (corrected)aorta anatomy; transposing the 3D model to a 2D pattern; manufacturingfrom the 2D pattern a 2D structure; and optionally designing an adapted3D model of the aortic endoprosthesis.

As detailed above, it is envisioned that, in light of the use of therings and attachment structures described below, the 3D model of theendoprosthesis used may in particular embodiments comprise features suchas grooves conform to one or more rigid rings and/or the attachmentstructures for attaching the rigid rings onto the 2D structure. Thegrooves allow easier and optimized positioning of the rings. In this waythe rings can be positioned based on the 3D images in thepatient-specific features or away from the head and neck vessels orweakened or deformed aorta anatomy. Thus in particular embodiments, thelocation of the grooves is selected based on the location of healthy anddiseased tissue, local anatomy and expected tissue properties which canbe derived from the 3D image. Additionally or alternatively, Inparticular embodiments the 3D model of the aortic endoprosthesis fittingat least part of the patient's (corrected) aorta anatomy comprisesfeatures such as those selected from holes, stable landing zones,defined zones for rigid rings and/or areas allowing the delivery ofactive agents. More particularly, in particular embodiments theintroduction of holes into the 3D model of the aortic endoprosthesis maybe required to ensure that blood flow towards branching vessels ismaintained. Also particularly the stable landing zones may be introducedat this stage of the process, wherein the “stable landing zones” referto regions of the aortic endoprosthesis that are patient-specific. Inparticular embodiments the stable landing zones are selected anatomicalregions which, based on information regarding the variation in functionof time of the anatomy of the lumen in the anatomical area of interestfor placing the vascular endoprosthesis, as anatomical regions withinthis anatomical area showing greater stability in time. This will ensurethat the endoprosthesis can be nested stably against a specific regionof the lumen wall of the patient, and has an increased chance of beingmaintained in this position.

In particular as detailed above, defined zones may be added that uponassembly correspond to the position of rigid rings that are attached tothe 2D structure. These zones may also be determined by the landingzones determined above.

Finally, it is also envisioned that in the design of the 3D model of theendoprosthesis specific features are added such as features orstructures that can be used for the delivery of active agents andmedicines into the blood flow.

In particular embodiments, the methods for manufacturing anendoprosthesis as envisioned herein further comprise the step of coatingthe endoprosthesis. This coating can be ensured before or after removalof the mold, but is typically envisioned after the mold has beenremoved. In particular embodiments, the coating is an (inert) coatingselected from the group consisting of polysulfone, silicone rubber,polyurethane, synthetic glycocalix, amorphous silicon carbide,diamond-like carbon, magnesium phosphate, magnesium oxide, or mixturesthereof.

In further particular embodiments, the methods for manufacturing anendoprosthesis as envisioned herein comprise the step of loading theendoprosthesis with a substance. This is particularly envisioned forthose embodiments where the endoprosthesis is provided with featuressuitable for administration of a composition during use, as will bedetailed below. In particular embodiments, the methods for manufacturingan endoprosthesis as envisioned herein may comprise the step of graftingbiological material onto the endoprosthesis. Suitable methods forcarrying out grafting on implantable devices are known in the art.

In particular embodiments the methods as described herein comprisemanufacturing the mold by additive manufacturing. In particular,additive manufacturing refers to techniques such as stereolithography,selective laser sintering, selective laser melting and/or fuseddeposition modeling.

The application also provides personalized vascular endoprostheses, suchas those obtainable by the methods as described herein.

In particular embodiments, the personalized vascular endoprosthesescomprise a hollow tubular body comprising a proximal end and a distalend, wherein the hollow tubular body provides a central longitudinalaxis, the body further comprising a stent scaffold made from a polymericmaterial and one or more rigid ring structures encircling and attachedto the stent scaffold, wherein the outer surface of the stent scaffoldcomprises at least one area complementary to at least part of apatient's aorta anatomy.

Thus, the endoprosthesis is typically made up of the stent scaffold andrigid ring or crown structures attached thereto. In particularembodiments, the material used for the endoprosthesis can be adjusted toachieve specific properties in specific areas of the endoprosthesis. Forinstance, it is envisioned that the rigidity of the material can beadjusted to provide regions of increased stiffness to allow attachmentof the rigid rings thereto. Thus, in particular embodiments, thescaffold material will vary in rigidity depending on the areas of theendoprosthesis.

More particularly, the endoprostheses may comprise at least onenon-circular cross-section along the length of the stent's longitudinalaxis. Accordingly, in particular embodiments, the endoprosthesescomprise one or more features to better adapt the tubular body to thepatient's anatomy including, but not limited to apertures, tapering,beveling, non-circular cross-sections, flaring or branching of the bodyof the endoprosthesis.

In particular embodiments the endoprosthesis as envisioned herein is anaortic endoprosthesis and comprises one or more openings for theconnection with head and neck vessels, which can be optimized and madepatient in a patient specific nature. In particular embodiments, theopening extends over the entire section of the aortic arch going intothe head and neck vessels.

In particular embodiments, endoprostheses are envisioned wherein thepart which has a non-circular cross-section is nevertheless providedwith a rigid structure, which extends across the endoprosthesis wall andthus is also non-circular in that part. The provision of rigidstructures nevertheless can ensure additional support for theendoprosthesis in this part.

In particular embodiments the personalized aortic endoprosthesescomprises a region complementary to at least part of the ascendingaorta, the aortic arch and/or the thoracic aorta. In further particularembodiments, this “personalized region” is a region corresponding to anon-diseased region of the aorta.

In particular embodiments the custom or personalized aorticendoprostheses as described herein are either self-deployable or balloondeployable. The endoprosthesis as envisioned herein may beself-expanding or balloon expandable. A self-expanding endoprosthesishas the ability to revert readily from a reduced profile configurationto a larger profile configuration in the absence of a restraint upon thedevice that maintains the device in the reduced profile configuration.Balloon expandable refers to a device that comprises a reduced profileconfiguration and an expanded profile configuration, and undergoes atransition from the reduced configuration to the expanded configurationvia the outward radial force of a balloon expanded by any suitableinflation medium.

The deployment is in particularly performed via a typical and commonlyused catheter procedure. Such a procedure typically comprises the stepsof puncturing the vessel (typically in a femoral artery in the groin),introducing a sheath, introducing a guidewire into the vessel andbringing the guidewire beyond the position of deployment of the device(the latter is typically done under fluoro guidance using for instance apig tail catheter to inject contrast into the vessel) and introducing acatheter with the device mounted to it. Ideally, the device should haveradio-opaque markers indicating the key locations on the device: startand end of landing zone, onset and end of head- & neck vessel opening,end of prosthesis etc. The device can be positioned and expanded underfluoro guidance.

For balloon expanded devices, both one-stage expansion and multi-stageexpansion are envisioned. In particular embodiments, where theendoprosthesis is an aortic endoprosthesis and comprises an openingspanning the connection with the head and neck vessels, a specific orderof deployment can be envisioned, in order to limit duration of vesselblockage. More particularly it can be envisioned that, expansion takesplace in the following stages: 1 ascending aorta, 2 portion with openingfor head and neck vessels, and 3 distal portion to head and neckvessels.

In particular embodiments, the endoprosthesis is a self-expandingdevice. In this case expansion occurs by the device being forced out ofthe catheter and seeking its natural state of expansion. In case of anaortic endoprosthesis which comprises an opening spanning the connectionwith the head and neck vessels and both a portion proximal (i.e.ascending aorta) and distal thereto, the deployment will occur in asimilar sequence as described above, as these sections of the devicewill exit the catheter in that order.

The 3-stage deployment as described above will allow for a deployment inwhich the device will already allow blood to flow to the body againafter phase 1 (i.e. during phase 2). In phase 3 the descending aortawill be temporarily occluded again. Ideally, in this embodiment theopening(s) in the endoprosthesis for the head and neck vessels aresufficiently large while maintaining a sufficient amount of externalforce to conform to the lower part of the aortic arch wall.

Thus, in particular embodiments, the endoprosthesis comprises one ormore openings for the head and neck vessels which are sufficientlylarge, while maintaining a section supporting the lower arch of theaortic arch wall. In further particular embodiments, this support isprovided by the ring structures in the device.

In particular embodiments, the endoprosthesis may be provided withhook-like elements or other elements which facilitate deployment.

The length and diameter of the endoprosthesis as envisioned hereindepends on the anatomy of the aorta into which it is to be deployed. Forexample, a thoracic endoprosthesis typically has a length between 10 and20 cm and a diameter between 25 and 40 mm.

In particular embodiments the endoprosthesis may be partially covered bya graft material such as but not limited to an engineered, animal, humanor tissue. In further particular embodiments, the endoprosthesis furthercomprises a heart valve or comprises an engineered heart valve (i.e. ofhuman or animal material) integrated into the structure. In particularembodiments, personalized aortic endoprosthesis as described herein ischaracterized in that the personalized aortic endoprosthesis fits atleast partially with the ascending aorta, the aortic arch and/or thethoracic aorta.

The ascending aorta is the portion of the aorta commencing at the upperpart of the base of the left ventricle, on a level with the lower borderof the third costal cartilage behind the left half of the sternum; itpasses obliquely upward, forward, and to the right, in the direction ofthe heart's axis, as high as the upper border of the second right costalcartilage, describing a slight curve in its course.

The aortic arch or the transverse aortic arch refers to the part of theaorta that begins at the level of the upper border of the secondsternocostal articulation of the right side, and runs at first upward,backward, and to the left in front of the trachea; it is then directedbackward on the left side of the trachea and finally passes downward onthe left side of the body of the fourth thoracic vertebra, at the lowerborder of which it becomes continuous with the descending aorta. It thusforms two curvatures: one with its convexity upward, the other with itsconvexity forward and to the left. Its upper border is usually about 2.5cm. below the superior border to the manubrium sterni.

The thoracic aorta is contained in the posterior mediastinal cavity andbegins at the lower border of the fourth thoracic vertebra where it iscontinuous with the aortic arch, and ends in front of the lower borderof the twelfth thoracic vertebra, at the aortic hiatus in the diaphragmwhere it becomes the abdominal aorta.

As detailed above, the methods described herein make use of a crushablemold or support. Where a crushable mold is used, the mold is typicallymade based on the 3D model of the endoprosthesis. Particular embodimentsof the crushable objects including molds are provided in patentapplication EP 11 184365.2 (which is incorporated herein by reference).This will be detailed herein for the provision of a crushable mold. Itwill be understood however, that non-patient-specific objects can bemade “crushable” in a similar way, starting from a 3D image of theobject.

Typically, the crushable aspect of the mold is obtained by dividing the3D model of the aortic endoprosthesis into two or more sub-domains,which are herein referred to as “tile pieces” or “tiles”. This processis referred to as meshing. The object of the meshing process is todetermine how the mold can be broken, i.e. which pieces will be formed.More particularly, the object is to ensure that the mold is broken intotwo or more fragments in a controlled way, such that the endoprosthesiscan be removed from the mold. Therefore, the 3D image or model is meshedat least in those areas where the corresponding mold will need to bebroken e.g. where it is expected to be difficult to remove from theendoprosthesis. In certain embodiments, the tile pieces are similarpieces, preferably pieces with a similar size, even more preferablypieces with a similar size and shape. However, as will be detailedbelow, the pieces may differ in size and shape.

According to a particular embodiment, the meshing is used during themanufacturing process to ensure the production of the mold in pieceswhich are separated by spacings. Indeed, as will be detailed below, themold is manufactured such that at the joints of the tile pieces thestrength of the mold is reduced compared to the tile pieces themselves.This ensures that, when pressure is put on the mold, it breaks apart atthe joints.

Accordingly, methods are provided for manufacturing the mold whereby themold is provided as a plurality of pieces or tiles, which are connectedthrough seams, which seams can be broken when the mold is subjected to amanual pressure. More particularly, the methods as described hereincomprise the step of meshing the mold (or an image or model thereof), soas to determine the location of the seams forming the pieces making upthe mold or mold part. In particular embodiments, the meshing isperformed without changing the outline of the model. For example, thiscan be understood as removing one or more thin slices from the image,such that the remaining tile pieces are separated by spacings at theoriginal location of the removed slices.

Accordingly, in particular embodiments, the methods as provided hereininvolve meshing the image or the model of the mold so as to divide itinto two or more tile pieces and spacings between the tile pieces,preferably without changing the relative position of the tile piecesand/or the outline of the image.

As indicated above, in particular embodiments, the individual tiles havethe same shape and size. However, the individual tile pieces may vary inshape or form according to the required specifications of the moldand/or endoprosthesis. The tile pieces may form a structured orunstructured mesh. A structured mesh is characterized by regularconnectivity that can be expressed as a two or three dimensional array.An unstructured mesh is characterized by irregular connectivity. Inpreferred embodiments, the tile pieces form a structured mesh.

In certain embodiments, the tile pieces are essentially geometric piecessuch as triangles, squares, rectangles, pentagons and/or hexagons.Thereby, the tile pieces ensure a tiled structure of the mold. Alsocombinations of these shapes and/or other suitable geometries may beconsidered. In particular embodiments, the tile pieces are triangular,square, rectangular, pentagonal and/or hexagonal prisms. Typically, theoverall shape and size of the tile is determined by the desiredrequirements and impact of breaking the mold (i.e. the amount ofpressure to be applied and the resulting pieces to be generated).

It is envisioned that in particular embodiments the tile pieces at oneor more surfaces of the mold have a different shape than the tile pieceswhich are more removed from the border of the mold. Therefore, inparticular embodiments, at least 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 or 90percent of the tile pieces have a similar or identical shape.

Additionally or alternatively, it is envisioned that the surface of thetiles making up the outer surface of the mold for the endoprosthesis isnot geometrical. Indeed, typically the interconnecting sides of thetiles will be have a geometrical or regular shape, while the surface ofthe tile which is intended to contact the endoprosthesis is not.

The number of tile pieces provided in the image or model of the moldduring the meshing process depends on various factors such as the sizeand shape of the mold and/or the endoprosthesis to be made. In certainembodiments, the model is provided with three, five, ten, twenty, fifty,hundred or more tile pieces. In particular embodiments, the meshingensures the provision of at least 5 tile pieces in the mold, moreparticularly at least ten tile pieces in the mold, more particularly atleast 20 pieces.

In certain embodiments, the tile pieces have a size between 2 mm² and 10mm². In particular embodiments, the mold surface comprises between 0.25and 25 tile pieces per cm². However by using state of the arttechnologies such as laser micro sintering, the resolution of themanufactured molds can be reduced below the limits commercial SLSdevices, providing resolution of less than 30 μm. Accordingly, incertain embodiments, the tile pieces may have a typical surfacedimension below 2 mm² and typically ranging from 250 μm² to 4 cm².

In most embodiments it is envisioned that all or most of the pieces havea similar size, more particularly sizes which differ at most by 5-10%.In particular embodiments, the meshing step ensures the provision of atleast ten pieces whereby all or most of the pieces have a similar size,more particularly sizes which differ at most by 5-10%. Typically, whilein certain embodiments, only part of the mold may be meshed, the meshedarea will comprise of at least ten pieces whereby all of the pieces havea similar size.

As detailed above, the meshing step provides tiles which are connected(or separated) by spacings or seams. In particular embodiments, thespacings or seams between adjacent tile pieces have planar geometry andhave a uniform width. Consequently, in particular embodiments, theneighboring surfaces of two adjacent pieces or tiles have a planargeometry.

However, the spacings or seams and neighboring surfaces may also haveother shapes and/or may have a non-uniform width. In particularembodiments, the adjoining surfaces of the tiles have a curved, jagged,serrated, corrugated or notched shape or geometry. In particularembodiments, the seams or spacings have a uniform width. An importantadvantage of non-planar adjoining surfaces of the tiles is theirenlarged area compared to when the adjoining surfaces are planar. Thisallows engineering of the seams to a certain intended breaking force.Indeed, the seam surface strongly influences the seam strength.Additionally or alternatively, these shapes may provide seams withdifferent strength in different directions. Furthermore, gaps with anon-uniform width may provide tailored strong and weak areas within theseams.

Thus, by determining the number, shape and size of the tiles in the moldand the width of the seams between them, the breaking of the mold uponapplying pressure is controlled. Typically the desired strength of theseams is such that it is breakable by hand and typically ranges between1 to 100 N and preferably between 1 and 50 N.

The mold used in the methods envisioned herein is typically made viaadditive manufacturing. Typically, an AM apparatus builds objects on alayer-by-layer basis.

Additive Manufacturing can be defined as a group of techniques used tofabricate a tangible mold of an object typically using three-dimensional(3-D) computer aided design (CAD) data of the object. Currently, amultitude of Additive Manufacturing techniques is available, includingSelective Laser Sintering, stereolithography, Fused Deposition Modeling,foil-based techniques, etc.

Selective laser sintering (SLS) and selective laser melting use a highpower laser or another focused heat source to sinter or weld smallparticles of plastic, metal, or ceramic powders into a mass representingthe 3-dimensional object to be formed. Fused deposition modeling andrelated techniques make use of a temporary transition from a solidmaterial to a liquid state, usually due to heating. The material isdriven through an extrusion nozzle in a controlled way and deposited inthe required place as described among others in U.S. Pat. No. 5,141,680.Foil-based techniques fix coats to one another by means of gluing orphoto polymerization or other techniques and cut the object from thesecoats or polymerize the object. Such a technique is described in U.S.Pat. No. 5,192,539.

Typically AM techniques start from a digital representation of the 3-Dobject to be formed. Generally, the digital representation is slicedinto a series of cross-sectional layers which can be overlaid to formthe object as a whole. The AM apparatus uses this data for building theobject on a layer-by-layer basis. The cross-sectional data representingthe layer data of the 3-D object may be generated using a computersystem and computer aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software.

Thus particular embodiments comprise manufacturing the mold by additivemanufacturing, thereby providing a mold comprising two or more tilepieces and spacings or seams between the tile pieces which have areduced strength compared to the tiles. In particular embodiments, thetile pieces are manufactured according to the meshed model, i.e. suchthat they are set in a position relative to each other corresponding totheir position in the model, and preferably without changing the outlineof the mold.

In particular embodiments, the mold is manufactured by SLS. Using SLS,the mold can be manufactured by sintering only the tile pieces. Providedthe seam is kept sufficiently narrow, the tiles remain interlinked atthe seams but the strength of the mold at the seams is reduced comparedto the strength of the tile pieces. The thermal energy provided by alaser onto the powder material will also cause some sintering of thepowder surrounding the individual tile pieces so that they remainconnected. As however, less material is sintered, the strength of theseams will be weaker than the strength of the tile pieces.

Thus, even though the laser of the SLS device is not specificallyapplied to the particles or powder at the locations corresponding to thespacings or seams in the mold, the particles or powder at theselocations still are sintered, albeit less than the sintered particles orpowder forming the tile pieces of the mold.

In alternative embodiments, the laser is also applied to the particlesor powder at the locations corresponding to the spacings between thetile pieces, but the (laser) power delivered to the particles or powderat the locations corresponding to the spacings or seams is lower thanthe power delivered to the particles or powder at the locationscorresponding to the tile pieces. This also still results in areas withdifferent degrees of sintering of the powder (i.e. the tile pieces andthe seams) and thus different strength, but provides a better control ofthe seam strength.

Thus, the mold obtained by the present method comprises two or more tilepieces which are linked by weakened seams. The weakened seams allowbreaking of the mold in a controlled and predefined way, whichfacilitates removal of the endoprosthesis from the mold. Anotheradvantage is that the weakened seams can be made such that they do notcompromise the rigidity of the mold. Therefore, the seams do notincrease the risk of mold deformation during the manufacture of theendoprosthesis.

Additive manufacturing is particularly useful for the manufacture ofhollow objects. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, the mold for anendoprosthesis is hollow. This reduces the amount of material necessaryto make the mold. A hollow mold is also easier to break, whichfacilitates removal of the endoprosthesis from the mold.

The material used to manufacture the mold or mandrel may depend on the(additive) manufacturing method used and the specifications of theendoprosthesis to be manufactured. In particular embodiments, themandrel is made of a material which is compatible with additivemanufacturing, including polymeric materials, metals, metal alloys,ceramic materials and glass. In preferred embodiments, the mold is madeof polyamide, polystyrene, steel, titanium, or aluminum. The mold mayalso be made of a composite material, preferably glass-filled polyamideor alumide. Alumide is a blend of polyamide and aluminum powder. Typicalmold (part) materials include for instance DSM Somos® series ofmaterials 7100, 8100, 9100, 9420, 10100, 11100, 12110, 14120 and 15100(from DSM Somos); ABSplus-P430, ABSi, ABS-ESD7, ABS-M30, ABS-M30i,PC-ABS, PC-ISO, PC, ULTEM 9085, PPSF and PPSU materials (fromStratasys); Accura Plastic, DuraForm, CastForm, Laserform and VisiJetline materials (from 3-Systems); Aluminum, CobaltChrome and StainlessSteel materials, MarangingSteel, Nickel Alloy, Titanium, the PA line ofmaterials, PrimeCast and PrimePart materials and Alumide and CarbonMide(from EOS GmbH).

Another embodiment provides a computer-readable medium adapted toperform the different steps of the method as described herein. Moreparticularly, it is provided in a data processing apparatus of systemwhich comprises means for carrying out the method as described herein,in a computer program adapted to perform the different steps of themethod as provided herein carried on an electrical carrier signal or acomputer program comprising software code adapted to perform the methodas described herein. The data processing system or computer program asprovided herein particularly refer to computer aided design andmanufacturing systems and programs such as CAD/CAM systems or programs.

The present invention will be illustrated by the following non-limitingembodiments.

EXAMPLES

FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of a diseased aorta anatomy intowhich a customized aortic endoprosthesis according to a particularembodiment is provided. A normal aorta anatomy (1) as shown in FIG. 1starts at the aortic valve (5) and comprises the ascending aorta (2),the aortic arch (3) and the thoracic aorta (4). The aortic archcomprises several branched vessels including the head and neck vessels(6). The diseased aorta anatomy as shown in FIG. 2 includes a diseasedascending aorta (7) and a diseased aortic arch (8) going into the headand neck vessels. Using a customized aortic endoprosthesis (10) asdescribed herein, the diseased aorta can be treated in a fast andefficient manner. The endoprosthesis comprises a scaffold (11)preferably made from a polymeric or a woven fabric material and one ormore rigid ring structures (12) encircling and attached to the scaffold.The endoprosthesis also comprises patient-specific features (14).According to particular embodiments the endoprosthesis may also comprisea part which forms a partial endoprosthesis (13) which only partiallycovers the circumference of the aorta anatomy, thereby leaving anopening for ensuring blood flow into the branched head and neck vessels.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show 3D images of the customized aortic endoprosthesisas described herein.

FIG. 4 shows a picture of an embodiment of suitable rigid ring or crownstructures which can be used for attachment to an endoprosthesisscaffold. In the figures shown, the crowns are stitched into theendoprosthesis material.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for manufacturing a luminalendoprosthesis fitting at least part of a patient's lumen anatomy, themethod comprising: designing a 3D model of a vascular endoprosthesis,based on a 3D image of the patient's anatomy or part thereof;transposing the 3D model to a 2D pattern of the endoprosthesis;manufacturing a 2D endoprosthesis structure from the 2D pattern;providing a mold for the vascular endoprosthesis; assembling the 2Dendoprosthesis structure around the mold so as to obtain a 3Dendoprosthesis; and removing the mold from the 3D endoprosthesis.
 2. Themethod of claim 1, wherein assembling the 2D endoprosthesis structurearound the mold so as to obtain a 3D endoprosthesis comprises attachingone or more rigid rings or crowns onto the 2D structure.
 3. The methodof claim 2, wherein the 3D model of the endoprosthesis comprises groovesconform to the one or more rigid rings or crowns and/or attachmentstructures.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the one or more rigidrings are stitched onto the 2D structure and wherein the attachmentstructures are stitch holes or grooves.
 5. The method of claim 1,wherein removing the mold from the 3D endoprosthesis comprises: applyingpressure to the crushable mold, wherein the mold is a crushable moldfracturing into discrete pieces upon application of pressure.
 6. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising: designing a 3D model of anendoprosthesis based on the patient's corrected vessel anatomy or partthereof.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the endoprosthesis is apersonalized aortic endoprosthesis which fits at least partially withthe ascending aorta, the aortic arch and/or the thoracic aorta.
 8. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising: manufacturing the mold byadditive manufacturing.
 9. A vascular endoprosthesis, comprising: aproximal end; a distal end; and a hollow tubular body having a centrallongitudinal axis, the body comprising: a stent scaffold made from apolymeric material; and one or more rigid ring or crown structuresencircling and attached to the stent scaffold, wherein the outer surfaceof the stent scaffold comprises at least one area complementary to atleast part of a patient's vessel anatomy.
 10. The vascularendoprosthesis of claim 9, wherein the endoprosthesis comprises at leastone non-circular cross-section along the length of the stent scaffold.11. The vascular endoprosthesis of claim 9, wherein the endoprosthesisis a personalized aortic endoprosthesis which complements at leastpartially with the ascending aorta, the aortic arch and/or the thoracicaorta.
 12. A non-transitory, computer-readable medium comprisingcomputer-executable instructions that, when executed by a processor in acomputing device, cause the computing device to perform a method ofmanufacturing a luminal endoprosthesis fitting at least part of apatient's lumen anatomy, the method comprising: designing a 3D model ofa vascular endoprosthesis, based on a 3D image of the patient's anatomyor part thereof; transposing the 3D model to a 2D pattern of theendoprosthesis; manufacturing a 2D endoprosthesis structure from the 2Dpattern; providing a mold for the vascular endoprosthesis; assemblingthe 2D endoprosthesis structure around the mold so as to obtain a 3Dendoprosthesis; and removing the mold from the 3D endoprosthesis. 13.The non-transitory, computer-readable medium of claim 12, whereinassembling the 2D endoprosthesis structure around the mold so as toobtain a 3D endoprosthesis comprises attaching one or more rigid ringsor crowns onto the 2D structure.
 14. The non-transitory,computer-readable medium of claim 13, wherein the 3D model of theendoprosthesis comprises grooves conform to the one or more rigid ringsor crowns and/or attachment structures.
 15. The non-transitory,computer-readable medium of claim 14, wherein the one or more rigidrings are stitched onto the 2D structure and wherein the attachmentstructures are stitch holes or grooves.
 16. The non-transitory,computer-readable medium of claim 1, wherein removing the mold from the3D endoprosthesis comprises: applying pressure to the crushable mold,wherein the mold is a crushable mold fracturing into discrete piecesupon application of pressure.
 17. The non-transitory, computer-readablemedium of claim 12, further comprising: designing a 3D model of anendoprosthesis based on the patient's corrected vessel anatomy or partthereof.
 18. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium of claim 12,wherein the endoprosthesis is a personalized aortic endoprosthesis whichfits at least partially with the ascending aorta, the aortic arch and/orthe thoracic aorta.
 19. The method of claim 12, further comprising:manufacturing the mold by additive manufacturing.